TORONTO, February 22, 2019 – The Toronto Challenge is on Sunday, June 9^th. This will be Bracondale’s 5^th year. Registration and pledge forms will be available in the coming weeks. It’s a great way to exercise, socialize etc. All funds raised will go towards our Holistic Wellness Program. For further information please refer to https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/more-city-produced-events/toronto-challenge/.

Media Inquiries:
Habiba Abudu
Communications and Fundraising Coordinator
habudu@smbh.ca
SMBH

TORONTO, February 21, 2019 – Floor meetings start next week! These provide tenants with timely information on various Bracondale issues. Our agenda is as follows:

• Opening
• Pest Control
• HVAC
• Riser Project
• Building Security
• Noise in the hallways
• Ramp accessibility in streetcars
• Scams
• Health
• Program Update
• Closing Video

The dates for the meetings are:

1 & 2 & 3rd Floors: Wednesday, February 27th – 3:00 p.m.

4 & 5 Floors: Wednesday, March 6th – 3:00 p.m.

6 & 7th Floors: Wednesday, March 13th – 3:00 p.m

There is also a possibility of an evening meeting, Monday, March 11 at 5:30 p.m. The evening meeting will happen if 10 people sign up.

Our Holistic Wellness program prides ourself on one’s social, physical and mental wellbeing. The recent edition of the Canada Food Guide is one that clients should consider when creating a holistic lifestyle.

The new Canada Food Guide is simple and easy to follow. PC: Canada Food Guide

Others have argued that milk and meat have been completely ignored in this new guide. Ultimately, clients must decide what foods work best for their lifestyle. 

Here are some highlights of the new guide:

• Be mindful of eating habits
• Cook more often
• Enjoy your food
• Eat meals with others
• Use food labels
• Limit foods high in sodium, sugars or saturated fat
• Be aware of food marketing

What are your thoughts on the new food guide? 

PC: Top 10 Medical Alert Systems

1. Exercise controls weight

Exercise helps you to maintain your weight. Any form of physical activity burns calories.

2. Reduce the risk of heart diseases through exercise

3. Exercise improves mood

This fall, why not partake in the many activities that we offer in partnership with Senior Adult Services (SAS)?

Adapted from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389

On September 13,  2018, we had our open house to showcase the new activities that will be hosting alongside Senior Adult Services (SAS).

In the past year, our government funders have informed us that they are reviewing the financial support that they provide to Bracondale. When providing activities or services, government funders request that recipients of funding form partnerships with other organizations. To maintain our funding, we realized that we would have to find a partner to jointly provide activities and services. Through a partnership, Bracondale will be able to increase participation levels and offer a wider range of activities for our senior community.

Unexpectedly in the summer, Seniors Adult Services in the Annex (SAS) approached Bracondale about moving their programs here. SAS received a termination notice from Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) in the Senator Croll building. After careful consideration, we decided that this partnership with SAS would be an exciting opportunity. We are now working together to provide exciting new activities at Bracondale starting on September 17^th.

Our agreement with SAS means that all Bracondale residents can attend all of their activities for FREE except the Osteoporosis Fitness class which is $65.00 per 13- week session. Bracondale’s yoga class will be free for all residents and SAS members.

We hope that many of you will come out to participate in the activities that SAS is bringing to Bracondale.  The following is a list of SAS’s activities that Bracondale will host:

Tai Chi                    Latin Quarter Luncheon          People & Current Events

Gentle Fitness      ESL – Engl. /Spanish Conv.       Gentle Yoga

Art Instruction    Stretch and Relax                       Functional Fitness

Duplicate Bridge Dancercise                                    Zumba

Friday Seniors Club for Spanish speaking seniors

We will continue to provide your favourite activities such as afternoon teas, shopping service, day trips, computer classes, yoga and the fall prevention classes.

Information booklets, calendars and pamphlets with programming information can be picked up at the Front Desk.

All of these activities will:

• Keep you physically active

• Give you more activities to enjoy during the day

• Provide you with opportunities to meet new friends

• Offer new ways to have fun and learn new skills

• Participate in a class that matches your physical ability

Classes started on Monday, September 17^th. We welcome everyone to participate in the new classes. Once again, all activities with the exception of the Osteoporosis classes are free.

If you have any questions, please speak to us in the office.

All my best,

Susan DesLauriers

Executive Director